Short vita
Jules Maaten is the Regional Director for Europe at the Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF), overseeing the work of the offices in Brussels, Geneva, Prague, and Vilnius. Previously, he served as Head of International Regions and Deputy Head of the International Department at the FNF headquarters in Potsdam. He also held the position of Regional Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at the FNF office in Johannesburg and Project Director for the Philippines in Manila. From 1999 to 2009, he was a Member of the European Parliament, and from 1992 to 1999, he served as Secretary General of Liberal International in London.
Contributions
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An opportunity for the EU!
Trump's re-election is forcing the EU to rethink its strategy. It is an opportunity to strengthen unity, promote autonomy and redefine Europe's global role.
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The shine is coming off the new Dutch government before it has even started
Next week a new government of the Netherlands will be sworn in, after more than half a year of often acrimonious negotiations. For the first time a party from the extreme right will be part of a Dutch government coalition, Geert Wilders’ Freedom Party (PVV). Apart from a programme outline that is a mishmash of conservative campaign promises, and a mixed bag of appointments to the cabinet, no one knows for sure where this rickety journey goes. Clearly, though, vigilance is called for.
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The pro-European majority successfully counters the attack from the right
The 2024 European elections were characterised by a high voter turnout and intense political debates. Despite the rise of extreme right-wing and left-wing parties, the political centre was able to maintain its position. This ensures the continuation of European integration, the protection of democratic values and increased defence cooperation. A clear signal to the world: the EU remains a stable and unified force.
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Viktor Orbán’s Absence Leaves a Bitter Taste
The European Union historically starts accession talks with the Ukraine, but at the same time fails to agree on a Ukrainian aid package. Hungarian Prime Minister appears to have successfully bullied his colleagues to sell out the democratic soul of the European Union. It cannot be left at that.
